Story by Rhylea Thompson

As men enter their retirement years, maintaining optimal health and wellbeing becomes more important than ever.

Heart health, diabetes, mobility, arthritis, high blood pressure and mental health are just some of the health challenges many senior men face or navigate daily.

At Seasons, we are committed to supporting male residents through every stage of their retirement, with a dedicated Care Team, vibrant Lifestyle Program and wholesome meals provided daily.

MAKING MEMORIES: Some of the male residents from Seasons Mango Hill attending the monthly men’s outing and lunch with a view. Picture: Supplied

By staying active, socially connected and informed, older men can better manage or prevent many serious health concerns.

Many wonderful gentlemen call Seasons home, with each one enriching our communities – one of the many reasons men’s health matters.

For Men’s Health Week from June 15 to 21, we are shining a light on the health challenges senior men face and encourage our male residents to take proactive steps toward a fit future.

Numbers don’t lie: How Seasons Lifestyle Program has transformed Doug’s health

When it comes to keeping busy, Doug is a master.

The retiree moved into Seasons almost four years ago, after being heavily involved with community organisations including Apex, The Rural Fire Brigade, Neighbourhood Watch and Men’s Shed, for decades.

ROAD TRIP: A group of male residents including Doug (centre left) from Seasons Living during a trip to the Caboolture Historical Museum. Picture: Supplied

“I tend to always end up in Treasurer roles because handling money is a job others don’t want, but I’ve always enjoyed it,” Doug said.

“After 20 years of being treasurer and the District Governor of Apex Brisbane, I went ‘Right, I’m not doing anymore committees,’ but that never lasts long.”

Doug and his wife Barb quickly embraced life at Seasons and regularly take part in the community’s Aqua Zumba classes, card games, craft or the monthly men’s and women’s trips.

In addition to these activities, Doug is also known for calling Bingo and running tipping competitions for the AFL, NRL and Melbourne Cup.

LUNCH DATE: Husband and wife Doug and Barb enjoying a lovely meal at Seasons. Picture: Supplied

“Barb always insists that I take part in things as she is very social herself,” he said.

“I’m usually one of only two men who do Aqua Zumba, but it has really improved my health and helped keep me mobile.”

After experiencing several health challenges over the years, Doug said his participation in the Lifestyle Program had improved his health both mentally and physically.

POOL PARTY: Despite just completing a workout, Doug (far right) and other residents are still all smiles at a session of Aqua Zumba. Picture: Supplied

“Normally when I get my Diabetes check, my HbA1c runs at eight or nine per cent, which is quite high,” he said.

“After months of doing Aqua Zumba, my most recent result was 6.6, which I haven’t seen in about 15 years.

“I also previously had Prostate Cancer and my recent PSA result was below 0.2, which is excellent, so health wise, the lifestyle activities have been really great for me.”

The retiree said he encouraged other seniors to get involved in the program as much as possible as it was not only beneficial to health, but was also a great way to make friends.

‘Put yourself out there’: Peter shares importance of staying social in retirement

After being diagnosed with severe Rheumatoid Arthritis at the age of 40, Peter struggled to walk at one stage, but with the help of specialists, medication and the Seasons Lifestyle Program, he is now thriving.

The Seasons resident regularly participates in community activities, joining the walking group to complete laps of the lake every day, playing snooker and table tennis and volunteering behind the community bar.

CELTIC CHEER: Seasons Living Waterford West resident Peter sitting down for a St Patrick’s Day themed lunch. Picture: Supplied

While Peter values the importance of maintaining his physical health, he also ensures he remains mentally stimulated by playing chess and mahjong and socialising with others.

“(Those activities) have definitely helped with my health challenges,” he said.

“It’s important for everyone regardless of their age, but especially once you retire, that you put yourself out there, join clubs and stay social.”

FAN FURY: Brisbane Broncos fan and Seasons resident Peter (left) enjoyed visiting the Leagues Club in Red Hill after the team won the grand final in 2025. Picture: Supplied

Previously working for the Royal Navy, Peter, and his wife who attended and lived onsite at a teacher’s training college, said they were well-equipped for communal living when they moved to Seasons.

“We knew what to expect from day one,” he said.

“I can’t really offer advice to others who may find the transition more difficult, but I can assure them that once you settle in, put yourself out there and give everything a go, you will really enjoy the lifestyle.”